Illinois quick hits: Anti-SLAPP bill signed; Chicago schools settles meditation case
Anti-SLAPP bill signed
Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signed legislation to protect news media from strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPP).
The governor said Senate Bill 1181 will ensure that the press won’t have to fear retaliation for telling the truth.
The measure takes effect immediately.
Chicago schools settles meditation case
A court-approved settlement of over $2.6 million is now being paid to 207 former Chicago Public School high school students who were required to participate in a transcendental meditation program during class.
Plaintiffs’ attorneys say the students’ rights were disregarded by the Chicago Board of Education, and students were coerced to practice a worldview that was in conflict with their faith.
Du Quoin State Fair begins
Friday is Day One and Family Night at the Du Quoin State Fair.
Now in its 102nd year, the fair features music, livestock shows, auto and harness racing, rodeos and agricultural exhibits.
The Du Quoin State Fair runs from Aug. 22 through Sept. 1.
Latest News Stories
Op-Ed: If Illinois wants clean energy, it needs data centers
Illinois senator’s bill on transgender ‘mental illness’ sparks debate
Lawmaker says Illinois behind 44 states in legislative transparency
Illinois Quick Hits: Foreign national faces harboring, forced labor charges
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Legislative Committee for February 3, 2026
Health & Safety Committee: Opioid Overdose Deaths Drop to Zero in January as Behavioral Health Department Expands Role
Illinois GOP state reps call on Dems to stop taxing s’mores, other goods
Illinois Quick Hits: Tangent to expand in Montgomery
Retail advocate: Swipe fees ruling is largest Main St. ‘relief package’ in Illinois
Smith & Wesson wins appeal chance in Highland Park lawsuits
Illinois Republicans say federal student data probe may reach Illinois State after Tufts review
Violence Interrupters, local activists lead CTA safety push